Paralysis

Richard's views and feelings toward life in general change a lot after his mother suffers 2 strokes, the first one leaving her paralyzed. The first time, his neighbors help him take care of his mother, but he also decides to write a letter to Granny to help him. He is anxious for Granny to arrive, and "when she came, I gave up, letting her handle things, answering questions automatically, obeying, knowing that somehow I had to face things alone. I withdrew into myself." He "went through the days with a stunned consciousness, unable to believe what had happened". He also says, "The utter loneliness was now terrifying. I had been suddenly thrown emotionally upon my own." Wright is distraught when he comes to the realization he is on his own. Although he is scared because he has never had this type of responsibility, he refuses to accept food from other people even though he needs it because he is ashamed. When Wright's mother has a second stroke, she is taken away, and at this point, Wright realizes that his mother is out of his life completely. His mother suffers a lot, but he is still allowed to see her. Her illness becomes accepted in a way that they realize nothing can be done. His mother's suffering becomes a symbol in his mind for many negative aspects of the world.